Ann Patchett always tells a good story. This latest novel seemed shorter than usual, but did not lack for interesting characters and situations.

The protagonist and narrator is Danny, who is recounting his difficult and unusual childhood, including his intensely close relationship with his sister, Maeve. With a distant father and an absent mother, the two of them have always looked out for one another. This is the story of their relationship first, and also the way each of them view and cope with the past.

The Dutch House is the eccentric mansion that still symbolizes their childhood to both of them, but it is a place they cannot go home to. It's complicated--I'd recommend not reading too much about this book before starting it.

I enjoyed this very much, and would recommend it!

The one topic I'd like to discuss: Elna! Danny is very angry with her, while Maeve is over the moon to have her back--only to be left again. If Andrea is supposed to be the evil stepmother, I do not think she has a foil; Elna abandoned her children. Also, could Andrea have legally kicked a minor out of his home? And I'm curious about how poor Bright and Norma got on.

Later note: I recently read Patron Saint of Liars, and--Rose reminded me somewhat of Elna. Two women who married too young?